Hi!
Remember me? We both have 55hex acrylic tanks that we plan to use as seahorse tanks.
I have 2 96w PC quad lights on my 55 hex. I got them from hellolights. They where about $100/each. I decided on these because I was a bit worried about MH causing heat issues and warping the acrylic tank. Also my house is really dry and I would have a lot of evaporation on such a small surface area.
I really wanted to put clams in the tank too, but I'm too worried about the seahorses getting their tales caught in a closing clam. I opted for the cheaper lighting because this summer I'll be setting up my 50g for clams and corals with the expensive MH lighting.
I'd say if you don't have space for another tank, can't afford another set-up, or whatever, then make sure you place the clams as close to the surface as you can. Hopefully the horses won't wander across them then.
Also I'd use VHO if I had clams in the hopes that it wouldn't warp the acrylic as much as MH. I could be wrong, but I think the clams would be alright under VHO. Though I think I remember reading somewhere that as far as wattage to heat output goes, MH is cooler than PC and VHO. PC I think it the hottest. Could be wrong. I have a bad memory.
HTH
Remember me? We both have 55hex acrylic tanks that we plan to use as seahorse tanks.
I have 2 96w PC quad lights on my 55 hex. I got them from hellolights. They where about $100/each. I decided on these because I was a bit worried about MH causing heat issues and warping the acrylic tank. Also my house is really dry and I would have a lot of evaporation on such a small surface area.
I really wanted to put clams in the tank too, but I'm too worried about the seahorses getting their tales caught in a closing clam. I opted for the cheaper lighting because this summer I'll be setting up my 50g for clams and corals with the expensive MH lighting.
I'd say if you don't have space for another tank, can't afford another set-up, or whatever, then make sure you place the clams as close to the surface as you can. Hopefully the horses won't wander across them then.
Also I'd use VHO if I had clams in the hopes that it wouldn't warp the acrylic as much as MH. I could be wrong, but I think the clams would be alright under VHO. Though I think I remember reading somewhere that as far as wattage to heat output goes, MH is cooler than PC and VHO. PC I think it the hottest. Could be wrong. I have a bad memory.
HTH